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Years After Michael Jordan Retired From Basketball Allegedly Due to “The Feds”, Money Laundering Convict Reveals Unheard Details About the $57,000 Check Which Started It All

Published 07/10/2022, 12:30 PM EDT

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Stories about Michael Jordan’s gambling addiction ran rampant in the American press in the 90s. In fact, these stories and media reports reached their peak after the murder of Jordan’s father in 1993. James “Slim” Bouler, who was tried in court after receiving a $57,000 check from Michael Jordan, addressed the prevalent media narratives on the issue.

Gambling is one of the few stains in Michael Jordan’s near-flawless career. In fact, His Airness’ gambling habits formed a staple in the 90s news media. Jordan’s highly competitive nature spilled over from the basketball court to poker tables and golf courses.

Money-laundering convict reveals truth behind Jordan’s $57k check

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There has been much speculation over the years regarding the Federal agencies’ role behind MJ‘s retirement in 1993 at the peak of his career. According to some reports, Jordan had been forced out by the NBA due to his ties with Vegas. However, no definitive evidence can be found disproving the Bulls legend’s willingness to pursue baseball.

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Meanwhile, money-laundering convict James “Slim” Bouler has recently opened up about receiving a $57k check for gambling debts from Jordan in the 90s. In fact, Bouler claimed that the Federal Government tried their best to frame him.

The then 41-year-old was tried in court for drug trafficking and money laundering charges. Moreover, the authorities apprehended him on a flight to Texas with $153k in alleged drug money in 1990. Later on, a federal jury acquitted him of drug trafficking charges but charged him with five counts of money laundering.

Bouler revealed in an interview that the federal authorities ambushed him. In fact, they tapped his phones and tried to frame him on fake charges. The media narratives against him didn’t help his case.

They stop me in the airport, no drugs,” he said. “But if you look at the articles and everything-I’m a Kingpin with $45.

Michael Jordan testified in favor of Bouler

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In 1992, Michael Jordan corroborated Bouler’s account. In an eight-minute testimony, he revealed that the $57k check he gave Bouler was for a golf bet he lost.

via Getty

Moreover, Jordan admitted to borrowing money from Bouler for poker. But accepted that the latter never participated in the game.

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What is your opinion about the whole incident? Let us know in the comments.

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Written by:

Satagni Sikder

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Satagni Sikder is an NBA writer for EssentiallySports. He has a Master's degree in English from Jadavpur University, Kolkata, and has been following the NBA since 2017. Moreover, he supports the Dallas Mavericks, and unsurprisingly, Luka Doncic is his favorite player.
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Edited by:

Arunaditya Aima